Seattle Symphony’s President and CEO Steps Down

Krishna Thiagarajan will step down as CEO after almost seven years in the role

After six and a half years in the role, Dr. Krishna Thiagarajan has chosen to resign from his role as President and CEO of the Seattle Symphony as of April 30, 2025.   

During his tenure, Thiagarajan helped the Symphony secure substantial recovery funding during the pandemic, which supported performances both remotely and in-person. The funding also helped create its global Seattle Symphony Live (SS+) streaming service. 

Other highlights include the appointment of Xian Zhang, who will begin her five-year term as Music Director in the 2025/2026 season. 

Thiagarajan also oversaw the launch of the Community Stages Fund, which provides local artists with access to Benaroya Hall’s spaces to present their art and connect with their community. 

The international search for his successor is currently being arranged by the Symphony board of directors. In the meantime, the orchestra’s Chief Development and Project Officer Maria Yang will serve as Acting CEO. 

“It’s been a deeply fulfilling experience to work with all the talented and dedicated people at the Seattle Symphony, Benaroya Hall and its foundation,” Thiagarajan said in the press release. “Leading the organization through COVID, the rebuilding of audiences and the historic appointment of Xian Zhang as the first female and woman of color Music Director have been some of the highlights of my time here.”   

“Equality and diversity have always been the core values guiding my work over these last six plus years, which has led to a substantial broadening of the programming presented by both the Symphony and Benaroya Hall,” he continued. “I plan to continue this work and dedicate this next phase of my career to fostering a better understanding of true cultural diversity, and how the creative sector can enhance our lives and create a better future for all.”  

“Krishna has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the organization, and his contributions are deeply appreciated,” added Jon Rosen, Seattle Symphony Board Chair. “His leadership, expertise, and passion for music have strengthened the Symphony and broadened our reach. We wish Krishna all the best in his next chapter and are grateful for his dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to the Symphony, Benaroya Hall, and the Seattle cultural community.”  

With a discography of over 150 recordings, the Seattle Symphony is a five-time GRAMMY Award winner and 27-time GRAMMY nominee. Housed in Benaroya Hall, its concerts reach over 750,000 people annually through live performances, radio broadcasts, and its streaming service.